OURAY COUNTY COURTHOUSE

The restoration of the Ouray County Courthouse reflects a comprehensive, community-driven effort to preserve one of Colorado’s most recognizable historic civic landmarks while ensuring its long-term functionality.

Jim Kehoe led the project from initial feasibility and programming through funding strategy and construction, guiding a complex process that included securing grant funding and advancing a successful public ballot initiative. This continuity of leadership ensured a clear vision from concept through completion, aligning community priorities, historic preservation goals, and fiscal responsibility.

Originally constructed in 1888, the courthouse anchors Ouray’s historic district and continues to serve the County, its departments, and the community. The design approach carefully balanced preservation with performance: restoring exterior masonry, woodwork, and architectural detailing to maintain its historic character, while integrating modern systems, structural improvements, and life-safety upgrades. The project also moved the Sheriff from the Courthouse 2nd floor to a new structure adjacent to the Courthouse.

Interior work focused on retaining the building’s historic materials while improving accessibility, security, and general functionality for contemporary use.

The result is a resilient, revitalized courthouse that continues to serve the community while honoring its legacy, an enduring example of how thoughtful leadership and design can extend the life of historic public architecture.

Project Credit: Jim Kehoe as Design Leader with CCA.
As Project Manager, Lead Designer, and Architect, Jim led the project from Building Assessments and Master Planning through Programming to Construction Completion over a 5-year period.